A new, huge crater has been discovered on the Moon

After successfully identifying a crater on the Moon caused by the upper stage of a Falcon 9 rocket, astronomers have discovered a new crater whose impact went undetected.

With a diameter of 728 feet (222 meters) and an estimated depth of 141 feet (43 meters), it is the largest known crater to have formed in recent years in the solar system. It was spotted in 2025 using data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. However, further observations were conducted to confirm its existence.

Named McGetchin, it is believed to have been caused by a fragment of an asteroid or comet. According to estimates, the object was about the size of a three- to six-story building. This phenomenon ejected material and dust over long distances, affecting an area extending more than 100 kilometers.

This event is quite significant, especially for astronomers. It should be noted that it would occur once every 132 years and that bases could be established on the Moon.

Consequently, since the impact was not detected, this new crater could provide valuable information. Indeed, astronomers want to determine the risks posed by the debris ejected during an impact. To do so, some researchers want to study the impact site using a robot in order to better understand the consequences.